Q&A: Does Marla Custom Blinds Franchise in the UK?

Alice Tuffery, writer

Published at 02/04/2018, Updated on 04/05/2022 , Reading time: 5 min

Q&A: Does Marla Custom Blinds Franchise in the UK? — Photo © marla-custom-blinds-franchise-information.jpg

Ever thought about becoming a franchisee with a window coverings business? If you’ve got a passion for interior design or even just helping people create a home they love, you might like to consider the sector. Here, we ask: Does Marla Custom Blinds franchise?

Blinds are almost everywhere. They're widely used by homeowners, businesses and educational institutions all over the world. Why? Because they're a practical alternative to curtains, which take up more space and can still let in quite a lot of light when closed. Blinds make it easier to control the level of light entering a room and can even retain heat during the colder months.

Specialising in both residential and commercial window coverings, Marla Custom Blinds is the largest family operated and owned blinds business on England's south coast. It makes all its products in its own factory in Hampshire. But does it offer franchising opportunities for investors looking to enter the interior decorating industry? Let’s find out.

Does Marla Custom Blinds franchise?

Yes - if you have the funds and a bit of DIY know-how, you can set up your very own Marla Custom Blinds franchise unit. Don’t worry if you don’t have experience running a business; the company runs a comprehensive training scheme to bring all its investors up to speed.

History of Marla Custom Blinds

Marla Custom Blinds was founded in 1995 by Angela and Martin Froud. They started as sole traders and worked on their business concept until they were able to develop it into a franchise. Now, with more than 25 years of industry expertise, it’s at the leading edge of the blinds, awnings and window shutter industry. The founders continue to focus on the most lucrative areas of three key markets: residential, commercial and contracts.

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A member of the British Blind and Shutter Association, and a provisional member of the British Franchise Association, this home décor business is a great opportunity for savvy investors. It continually works to stay a step ahead of its competitors and spot new trends and opportunities before anyone else.

One of the franchise’s keys to success is its supply chain. Most of Marla Custom Blinds’ products are manufactured in Britain, so they can be installed quickly. What’s more, the franchise caters to a vast market, ranging from private homes and colleges to government buildings and refurbishment companies, so franchisees have access to a huge customer base.

Starting a Marla Custom Blinds franchise unit

When you join the Marla Custom Blinds franchise, you set up a van-based business, travelling to customers’ properties. Thanks to the flexible business model, you’ll be able to manage your franchise unit from the comfort of your own home and maintain a good work-life balance.

Becoming a Marla Custom Blinds franchisee:

You don’t need industry or business ownership experience to become a Marla Custom Blinds franchisee, but you should be able to demonstrate a positive work ethic and professionalism. Other useful attributes include interpersonal skills and an eye for detail - and you should have a full driving licence, of course.

Once you’ve signed up to become a franchisee, you’ll be given an exclusive territory comprising approximately 13,000 businesses and 200,000 residential and commercial buildings. Your van will have an eye-catching vehicle wrap, so you’ll be able to attract new customers while on the road.

In time, you’ll also have the opportunity to develop your franchise into a multi-van management business to maximise your income potential.

How much you need to invest:

To start your own Marla Custom Blinds franchise, you'll need to be prepared to invest around £15,000. Each order you complete brings in an average of £1,000 for your business, so you can expect to generate an income of £100,000 after two years.

What you get for your investment:

The Marla Custom Blinds franchise team gives all its business partners a helping hand as they go into business. You can rely on high-quality training resources to help you develop your skills across all aspects of management, including finance and marketing. The franchise will also offer advice on your business development plan and provide tools, equipment and branded clothing.

When you first open for business, Marla Custom Blinds organises a three-month, multi-channel marketing campaign worth £3,500. It includes a geo-targeted Google AdWords scheme, a customised website landing page and 10,000 postcards, as well as magazine and social media advertising.

The franchise even runs induction programmes for your employees and franchise network meetings. By taking part, you’ll have the chance to learn how other franchisees have grown their businesses with the brand.

Join the interior decorating sector

Starting a home improvement business can be fun and rewarding, as well as profitable, so it’s a great opportunity if you love interior design. The Marla Custom Blinds franchise has a winning concept, with one of the UK’s largest ranges of bespoke window coverings. Today, it’s on the lookout for new investors to set up their own branches under its popular business model. To find out more about the blinds and shutters franchise and get the ball rolling, visit its profile page here at Point Franchise.

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Don’t worry if the Marla Custom Blinds concept isn’t quite right for you; there are plenty of other investment opportunities in the home improvement sector. If you like the thought of running your own business whilst helping people achieve their interior design visions, take a look at our current franchise openings in this sector.

From loft conversion firms and driveway designers to plant installation companies and even Christmas decoration franchises, the opportunities on offer are incredibly diverse. You can refine the selection and explore specific sub-sectors, such as renewable energy or furniture repair, for example. Then, narrow down your choice even further by sorting the selection by popularity or investment cost.